What action should you take if your car begins to hydroplane?

When a vehicle begins to hydroplane, the best action to take is to slow down gradually and steer straight. Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up in front of the tires, causing them to lose contact with the road. This can lead to a loss of control over the vehicle.

Slowing down allows the tires to regain traction as the vehicle decreases speed. Maintaining a straight steering path helps to stabilize the vehicle, preventing it from spinning or veering off-course. It's crucial to avoid sudden movements, as jerking the wheel or hitting the brakes too hard can exacerbate the loss of control and potentially lead to a crash.

In contrast, other options may lead to dangerous outcomes. Steering into or against the skid may produce unpredictable results, and braking hard can worsen the situation by locking the wheels and further compromising traction. Therefore, slowing down gradually and keeping a straight course is the safest response to restore control while hydroplaning.